A DEFINING MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE.

Andy Newman was Toastmaster of the day. The theme for the meeting was “A Defining Moment in your Life”. Andy encouraged us to think about those times of transition that lead to a defining moment. What made it happen?

Mike Molina was the 1st speaker. His speech revolved around a phrase from the movie Gladiator when Russel Crowe said “what we do today echoes in eternity”. Mike shared an experience that impacted him early in life. He attended a private elementary school in the area and when in the 4th grade was asked not to return. However, it was not caused by his behavior. According to the school, his family was not contributing enough to the church. It was meant to be. Had it not been for this circumstance, he would have never met a teacher at his new school who inspired him to get involved in extracurricular activities. Mike wanted to be like Steven Seagal so he took up karate and jiujitsu. Because of the discipline he developed, he found he had nothing in common with friends that involved themselves in questionable activities. Furthermore, Mike was able to influence his brother who had addictions to the point that he put his life back together, married his high school sweetheart and is leading a good life. Mike encouraged us to live life knowing that what you do has an impact on those around you. Think of your actions as a game of chess. Any move has an impact on future moves and affects the decisions you make with multiple decisions and outcomes at play. Always think in terms of this question: “am I doing what I am committed to doing”? Mike shared how before acting or making a decision, he thinks how that will impact his son because he wants to be the best father for his son. Remember “what we do today echoes in eternity”.

Our Toastmaster reminded us that speeches are good opportunities to get other to know us.

The 2nd Speaker was Lina Draney who delivered her 5th speech entitled “Urban Life Crossing”. Lina started by telling us how as a child in the Dominican Republic, she and some relatives were attacked by wild hungry animals that turned out to be Iguanas. Fast-forward to the present, to a day when she was driving on the airport Perimeter Road. When you get to 57th Avenue it is particularly a busy intersection. As Lina waited at the intersection she witnessed an Iguana crossing. Lina explained in fine detail and with gestures how the Iguana moved. Her description was so vivid we felt like we were there watching this event alongside Lina. She also told us how after the Iguana decided to turn back after having crossed and how a crow flew down and fluttered around the Iguana and then just left. Lina never understood what that was all about. However, as far as Lina could tell the Iguana was safe and out of harm’s way. Lina was amazed at how much you miss. As she looked around, everyone that was in their car waiting for the light to turn were busy looking down at their cell phones missing all the excitement.

The Table Topics Master of the day was Jason Hesch. Jason’s questions were challenging. The contestants were witty and all had good answers.

Diane Saavedra, our latest Toastmaster, told us how her favorite book as a child was “Who Moved My Cheese” and gave us a quick summary

Virginia Wolber told us that if she won $100,000 that couldn’t be spent on her, she would donate it to cancer treatment for someone who couldn’t afford it

Felix Lorenzo had no opinion on one of the candidates running for President. That is why he registered as Independent because he doesn’t trust Republicans or Democrats. They are either too much to the right or too much to the left. Politicians need to be clear, not promise what they can’t deliver. All one can do is wish for the best.

Jennifer Garcia was asked to give reasons why Donald Trump should be elected. Jennifer emphatically replied, “DO NOT ELECT DONALD TRUMP”. She begged both Republicans and Democrats to heed her cry.

Jim Harnett told us how he would design a self-driving car. Jim explained how the car would not have a key. The minute you walk onto the driveway the doors open automatically. The car also parallel parks automatically. All of this is controlled by your cell phone. The best part is that this is the biggest hoax and all for $10,000.00

Winners:

1st place: Jim Harnett

2nd place: Felix Lorenzo

3rd place: Jennifer Garcia

The Master Evaluator was Luisa Herran who went on to give feedback on the meeting and speech Evaluators. She commended the Toastmaster for running such a fine meeting and for explaining the mechanics of the meeting. She also appreciated the thought provoking theme. Luisa mentioned how both Evaluators gave excellent evaluations. Andres Corral evaluated Mike Molina’s speech. This was Andres’ first evaluation. Jerry Bailey evaluated Lina Draney’s theme. A particular area for improvement is to time your speeches adequately so you are not rushed at the end trying to wrap things up.

New Evaluators are encouraged to use the manual to follow the guidelines, which translates into a thorough evaluation.

We welcomed our guest George de Cardenas and our new member, Diane Saavedra.